Improving leadership development: How evaluation aids learning

Abstract

Purpose

Reviews the latest management developments across the globe and pinpoints practical implications from cutting-edge research and case studies.

Design/methodology/approach

This briefing is prepared by an independent writer who adds their own impartial comments and places the articles in context.

Findings

Developing leaders and managers remains high on the agenda for many organizations. Learning requirements are established and companies strive to meet these goals by creating and delivering relevant programs. These endeavors do not come cheap though. Considerable investment is the norm. Little wonder then that the focus on evaluating leadership development programs has grown markedly. Firms naturally want to know that such outlays can be justified. Evaluation means additional cost. But executed properly and it can be money well spent. Assessment of past and current learning programs provides strong foundations for the future. Specifically, evaluation can identify ineffective program elements and those which have had a more positive impact. Important findings then help to create a framework for subsequent offerings.

Practical implications

Provides strategic insights and practical thinking that have influenced some of the world's leading organizations.

Originality/value

The briefing saves busy executives and researchers hours of reading time by selecting only the very best, most pertinent information and presenting it in a condensed and easy-to-digest format.

Citation

(2013), "Improving leadership development: How evaluation aids learning", Strategic Direction, Vol. 29 No. 11, pp. 31-33. https://doi.org/10.1108/SD-09-2013-0074